Over the last several blogs, I have looked at design elements that define a successful pediatric facility, from the radiology unit to the emergency department, and the private patient room. Children have unique healthcare needs that require unique design choices.

Here are six design considerations that define a well-planned pediatric unit:

Over the last couple blogs, I have looked at pediatric facilities to consider design choices that enhance outcomes for young patients. Pediatric patient rooms and units likewise warrant unique design direction to accommodate children’s medical and emotional needs.

I was talking with Dennis Vonasek, AIA, who directs our Pediatric Design Services at HGA. We have worked on several pediatric units over the years.

He pointed out some key features in today’s pediatric patient rooms:

1. Family zones
The rooms are usually divided into three zones for staff, patients, and family. The family zones can include a simple sleeper chair to a pullout bed for a guardian’s overnight stay. In addition, an adult work area with a desk and Wi-Fi access enables parents to accomplish routine tasks without leaving the room. Flexible seating arrangement in expanded rooms should accommodate siblings, relatives, and young friends who may visit for longer stays.

Since the heyday of Frank Lloyd Wright, architects have received kudos for blending their creations with their natural surroundings. Wright’s Prairie Style was all about designing structures that seemed to emerge organically from their environment. And, in that sense, Wright has been done proud by the Eisenhower George and Julia Argyros Health Center.

The ambulatory care center recently opened by the Eisenhower Medical Center in La Quinta, California, evokes the surrounding desert and mountain ranges-both outside and inside. The intent was to give Coachella Valley residents living 20 miles east of Palm Springs a primary care clinic where they would feel at home and comfortable within the surroundings of their hauntingly beautiful neighborhood. Recently HEALTHCARE DESIGN Contributing Editor Richard L. Peck asked key participants in the Argyros Center design process-Ali Tourkaman, vice president for support and construction services at Eisenhower; Juan Ramos, project manager with Boulder Associates; and Denise Burkett, project manager and team design leader with Jain Malkin Inc. (Interior Architecture), to discuss the concepts and collaboration behind a facility offering comprehensive primary care services to this fast-growing community.